Michelle Zauner Explores the Emotionally Complex Aspects of Fame on New Album

Japanese Breakfast experienced a significant rise in fame with their last album, "Jubilee." The release led to sold-out theaters globally, two Grammy nominations, and placements on numerous year-end lists highlighting the album's vibrant sound.

However, this new level of celebrity impacted frontwoman Michelle Zauner deeply. Her heightened profile also resulted from her bestselling 2021 memoir, "Crying in H Mart." Zauner, 35, shared, "For the past 10 years, I’ve really leaned into my work to stay grounded. Sometimes doing that goes too far." She reflected on personal losses and the strain on friendships due to her relentless touring schedule, missing vital family moments—weddings, birthdays—while her friends moved on without her.

Zauner appreciates her success but aimed to channel her complex emotions into her fourth album, "For Melancholy Brunettes (and Sad Women)", released on March 21. Reflecting on previous years, she said, "Part of that was so fun… but there’s another part that’s kind of sad." She noted a desire to reassess her life as she approaches her mid-30s and considers having a family.

Fans of "Jubilee" might find the tonal shift in "For Melancholy Brunettes" surprising. However, Zauner believes that these new songs align with her natural perspective. "Jubilee responded to engaging with joy after years of writing about grief," she explained. This album marks her return to feelings of melancholy about various aspects of her life. "I wanted to explore a darker palette," she noted, which reflected her emotional landscape at that time.

While developing "For Melancholy Brunettes," Zauner sought inspiration in literature and art. Influences included Thomas Mann’s "The Magic Mountain" and Caspar David Friedrich's paintings. Instead of immersing herself in music, which could influence her sound, she read extensively. "When I wrote my book, I read a lot and sought precise descriptions," she stated. "But I worry about copying when it comes to music."

The seeds of this album were partially sown during the "Jubilee" tour, which took the band across Europe—a haven for literature and art enthusiasts. Zauner reminisced about visiting museums on off days, being captivated by paintings and their titles. These experiences influenced her songwriting, infusing references to Greek mythology.

One particular fascination sprang from Jusepe de Ribera’s portrayals of the four Furies. Zauner explored their stories, showing a disturbing yet intriguing side of mythology where gods, seen as pure beings, often displayed human flaws. She explained, "These deities are shown as jealous and cruel, abusing their power."

Zauner interweaves these mythological themes throughout "For Melancholy Brunettes," a title drawn from her song "Orlando in Love." The songs act as character studies of individuals contemplating their regrets or sacrifices and the consequences that follow. "It presents crossroads in our lives," she said, emphasizing the dilemmas in human choices and experiences.

Contrary to assumptions, this exploration of heavy themes did not weigh down Zauner. "I felt freed from [my music] getting any larger," she said. "I’m content if this is as big as it gets." Her primary focus is on producing a genuine artist record, reflecting her interests naturally. Zauner expressed a desire to create without trying to expand her audience artificially. "People can sense when someone is reaching for popularity. The best approach is pursuing creativity honestly."

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